Author: Kim Kalliber

Ancestral waters, modern battles depicted in ‘Fish Wars’ film

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

A quiet war rages in the foggy waters between traditional and territorial lines, where fishing for Indigenous coastal communities of Washington State is not just a means of survival—it’s a vital aspect of their identity. As governments encroached upon fishing grounds and enforced maritime laws, the tribes of Washington fought to uphold their sovereignty, which was established in the 1855 Treaty of Point Elliott. The age-old rights to the sea are being challenged, and at stake is not merely access to resources but the fundamental right to exist as sovereign people in a world where states are tightening their grip on the waterways.  

One powerful example of this struggle is captured in Fish War, a compelling documentary highlighting the challenges faced by the Coast Salish Indians in Washington. As they fight to fish in their ancestral waters and co-manage fisheries, the film provides profound insight into the importance of protecting sovereign rights. It illustrates that these rights are defended in the waters and the courtroom. 

The Everett Performing Arts Center hosted the Everett Film Festival on Saturday, April 5, showcasing various films over two days. For over 25 years, this festival has celebrated local and national filmmakers. This year, Tulalip contributed at the screening for the documentary “Fish Wars.”

As the festival got underway, Patti Gobin said a few words before leading members of the Tulalip Tribes in an opening song before the film started. She said, “We are stronger together than apart.” A fundamental aspect that played a major role in what the tribes had to do.

After the film ended, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission Chairman Ed Johnstone said a few words. “I am very proud of this film. It hits on all the major components of how we found ourselves, signing treaties. And the expectation when we signed those treaties was to become citizens of the territory. They used the language “citizens of the territory” because it was many years before statehood.” 

When speaking about how he wished non-natives would receive the film, Johnstone said, “I hope they realize how we got to the courts and prevailed. I also hope they ask themselves how can we bring the salmon back?” He then discussed what actions we must start doing to help the salmon now. “Recovering the streams and suitable habitat. That’s where the battle is in the habitat. If we don’t start winning that battle, we will be down to zero fish and out of business.” 

When talking about the youth and what was intended for them to take away from the film, Johnstone said, “First of all, we want to leave the place better than when we found it. We also want to get them energized to get in there and help. They are our future leaders. Our messaging has to be relevant to them and their way of life. We want to equip them to succeed. 

Johnstone continued, “We are just going to keep telling our story about who we are. We aren’t going anywhere. This is Indian land here in Washington State, where we hold our treaty rights and will be the voice for the habitat. The fish that can’t speak for themselves, we have to do that.”

As the tides of policy and climate continue to shift, the voices of Washington’s tribal communities remain steady-rooted in generations of knowledge, resilience, and responsibility to the land and waters. The story in Fish War is not only a call to recognize treaty rights but a reminder that the health of our environment is deeply intertwined with the survival of Indigenous lifeways. In standing firm for their sovereignty, the tribes also stand up for a more sustainable and just future for all.

If you want to watch the movie, it is currently available for preorder on Amazon Prime and is expected to release on April 15. 

Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month with bubbles!

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

A certain cartoon sponge once famously said, “We’re not just blowing bubbles, we’re making bubble art!” He quickly backed up this statement by using his special technique to conjure a butterfly from his bubble wand, while also unintentionally annoying his underwater neighbor. 

As hilarity ensued in the bubble-centered Spongebob Squarepants episode, Spongebob’s unwavering fondness for sudsy orbs shined a bit of light on the important role bubbles play in brain development and cognitive function. Examples of this include patience, perception, creativity, sensory integration, visual tracking, hand-eye coordination, cause and effect, social interaction/skills, and even motor skills. 

Now, though bubbles are beloved by people of all ages, children who are diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) take a particular shine to bubble play. This is most likely because it helps fulfill so many of their sensory needs by offering an engaging and calming experience.

A few years back, in April 2012, a nonprofit called Faces 4 Autism embarked on an initiative to set a Guinness World Record for the most people blowing bubbles at the same time and invited schools and families across the nation to participate. After achieving this amazing feat, bubble play became a staple at Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month events throughout the country. And this year, the Tulalip Family Haven’s IDD program is hosting a bubble-themed gathering on April 25, to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month on the rez. Or as Spongebob would say, they are gearing up to ‘bring it around town’.

Autism is a common, yet very complex, intellectual developmental disability that has significantly been on the rise over the past few decades. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in thirty-six children in the United States are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. That study also shows that Native children are affected at a similar rate as other races and ethnicities, but that does come with a caveat. 

Because of a lack of resources on reservations and access to mental health care, many Indigenous kids are diagnosed later on in life, during their pre-teen years. In comparison, non-Native children living with ASD are typically diagnosed by the age of three. Early indicators include language delay, repetitive behavior, obsessive interests, as well as social and communication challenges. The CDC states that children living with ASD have different ways of learning, moving, paying attention, and interacting with the world around them. 

Furthermore, research conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that Native youth are 13% less likely to be identified with autism in early childhood, while non-Native kids are 1.5 times as likely to receive an ASD diagnosis at a young age. And those low statistics and the lack of available knowledge surrounding IDD tends to lead to negative misconceptions, denial, and a feeling of despair once an Indigenous child is diagnosed with any form of IDD. 

With the prevalence of ASD on the rise, many communities are slowly transitioning from participating in Autism Awareness Month to celebrating Autism Acceptance Month, including Tulalip. 

Said Alayna Helland, IDD Case Manager at Tulalip Family Haven, “Awareness is important, but acceptance is also vital. To show acceptance of individuals with autism, it’s important to focus on everything they can do instead of focusing on what they can’t do. People with autism are often gifted with unique abilities like exceptional memory, heightened attention to detail, strong visual-spatial skills, and unique perspectives on problem solving.”

In preparation for Autism Acceptance Month, Alayna reached out to Tribal member and a parent of a child with ASD, Cara Mccoy. Cara spoke on the difficulties Tribal families face with the lack of inclusion when it comes to attending community gatherings. Cara shared, “We rarely go to the events because there are a lot of people and it’s loud. To do more things in the community, offer sensory-friendly events. Have a sensory room at the more significant events.”

The IDD Support for Families program was developed in 2023 to help Tulalip community members with an ASD or IDD diagnosis by bridging the gap between the reservation and the available resources. 

The program is referral-based and takes both outside referrals, from other tribal programs and/or the Marysville School District, as well as self-referrals where a family can request services by either in-person appointments or by completing an online application on Family Haven’s Tribal department webpage. They offer their services to Tulalip tribal members as well as to other Natives who live in Snohomish County. IDD services include monthly play groups, weekly support groups, community outreach, connecting families with resources, and assistance with any applications in regard to their child’s needs such as medical, disability, and caregiving. 

When asked about the importance of celebrating Autism Acceptance Month, Alayna stated, “It is important to celebrate because Studies have shown that children in Native American communities are less likely to have access to a specialist to receive a diagnosis and are less likely to have an early intervention. Early intervention is crucial for children with autism because it maximizes their potential for positive outcomes by addressing developmental challenges early, improving essential skills like communication and social interaction, and enhancing independence and overall quality of life. 

“The IDD program assists in connecting families with providers that can diagnose Autism and ADHD, and it’s important that our community knows this resource exists so early intervention is possible. The IDD program holds events throughout the year that are accommodating to our community members with Autism. On April 25, we are celebrating Autism Acceptance Month at the Mission Highlands building. We will have sensory activities for the children, early dinner, and information and resources for anyone interested in the program.”

The Autism Acceptance Month bubble blast bash will take place from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Mission Highlands park on the last Friday of April. For more details about the IDD program or the upcoming gathering, please contact (360) 716-4935.

Welcoming Home our Vietnam Vets

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

A truly heartfelt and emotional event took place recently that brought together veterans, families, and community members from all walks of life. The event, named “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans,” was organized by respected Tulalip elder and Vietnam veteran, Andy James.

Andy, now 69, served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1975 to 1977 where he earned the rank of Private First Class. After returning home nearly five decades ago, he, like many others who served their country during the tumultuous Vietnam War, was not met with gratitude. Instead, they returned home to resounding hostility or even worse, spirit piercing silence. 

For the past 12 years, he’s made it his mission to ensure that the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans are acknowledged, honored, and remembered. Since 2013, Andy has organized a veteran-led gathering at Tulalip to bring the Native community together with compassionate individuals and local organizations who wish to give those past warriors the welcome home they were previously denied.

“That first gathering in 2013 was achieved by word of mouth alone. I roamed around Snohomish, Skagit and Whatcom Counties letting people know what my intentions were,” Andy explained during the 2025 event, held at the Tulalip Youth Center. “That first year 40 veterans showed up. They were impressed, the non-Indians in particular, and shared with me they wished they had something similar in their respective communities. Most don’t get to experience the love our Indian people extend to our veterans and elders.”

The morning-long gathering blended traditional Native ceremonies with modern tributes. It opened with a smudging ritual and drum circle, followed by a 13-student color guard from Marysville School District, which included an honorary bugle player.

Chief Kathleen Wilde, naval science instructor for Marysville School District, led the color guard. “When we were invited to participate, the kids were very excited and considered it a great honor,” she shared. “It’s so important for veterans of every branch and community to be able to teach the students what it meant to serve and what it still means to serve our country. These lessons that only veterans can teach and share are invaluable. I’m humbled to be here and just so grateful that the students were included. This is something they’ll never forget.”

The Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans events included tear-evoking testimonials from vets willing to share their experiences of war and their return, as well as intertribal dances, flute music, songs from two drum circles, and a communal meal. A true sight to behold was a solo powwow dancer fortified by a wolf headdress and full-bodied eagle staff. He summoned the warrior spirit within that shared space and managed to radiate healing medicine for all who needed it.   

Andy emphasized that one of his goals was to use the event to share Native traditions with the wider community. “We’ve always had ceremonies for returning warriors,” he said. “This is our way of showing gratitude and helping the spirit return home. I want all people, all veterans, Indian and non-Indian, to experience the power of our culture.”

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Native Americans serve in the Armed Forces at five times the national average, having the highest per-capita involvement of any other ethnic group. Yet, those stories are often left out of the broader narrative. Events like Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans aim to change that by platforming the voice and experiences of Native vets.

One of Tulalip’s oldest living tribal members, 94-year-old Hank Williams Sr., attended the event and praised Andy’s continued efforts. “This is powerful. Shows one person can bring us together,” the proud U.S. Army veteran (1952-1954 Korean War) said before taking to center floor during a ceremonial salute to vets.

Protecting children and empowering families

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

Each year, hundreds of thousands of children in the United States experience the trauma of abuse and neglect. According to the National Children’s Alliance, one in four girls and one in 13 boys will experience child sexual abuse. This devastating reality underscores the importance of community action and support. In 2022 alone, 558,899 children were identified as victims of abuse and neglect, and by 2024, Child Advocacy Centers across the nation had served over 372,000 children facing allegations of abuse. 

In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Tulalip’s Children’s Advocacy Center held a community awareness event at the Hibulb Cultural Center on Thursday, April 3. This gathering brought together representatives from various tribal departments to showcase a plethora of resources aimed at supporting children facing abuse and adversity. The event underscored the critical importance of vigilance and compassion within our community, encouraging attendees to become more aware and active in protecting our youth.

Coinciding with Hibulb’s free admission day, which takes place on the first Thursday of every month, the event featured engaging activities such as a drum-making class and a beaded bracelet workshop. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit booths from Family Services, beda?chelh, Tulalip Bay Fire Department, Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid, and Child, Youth, and Family Mental Wellness, which provided valuable information and resources to enhance community support for children in need. 

Sue-Mei Slogar, Social Worker for beda?chelh said, “Essentially, CPS can be scary, and people don’t really understand our role and think we are just coming in and taking kids away. A lot of what we do is provide resources for families that need help getting connected to resources in the community and giving them resources we have at our end. We aim to keep kids and their guardians together and strengthen their relationship. And to stop child abuse and child neglect. Also, to help parents be there for their kids.” 

Explaining her perspective on the importance of these events, Slogar emphasized that many individuals in need of assistance often feel lost regarding where to seek help. She stated, “A lot of time when people need help, they don’t know where to go and turn to.” Slogar believes that making the community aware of the services available enables those in need to reach out before a crisis occurs. She added that it is essential for the community to understand that support is accessible, saying, “I think that’s helpful for the community to know our presence and build those relationships before something negative happens.” This proactive approach fosters strong connections and ensures a supportive environment instead of waiting until problems escalate. 

The Child, Youth, and Family Mental Wellness booth offered resources on grief, stress relief, and self-care tips. They provided fun gifts for children, such as beach balls, to help them practice healthy breathing techniques. Clinical Supervisor Sarah Wright explained, “We are here to bring some awareness to mental health and creative ways to calm ourselves and bring our stress down.”

The Tulalip community’s dedication to preventing child abuse and supporting families was reflected in the heartfelt collaboration and meaningful activities at the awareness event. As these efforts continue, it is vital to remember that help is always within reach. Whether you are a child, parent, or community member seeking guidance, remember that you are not alone. For support and resources or to learn more, contact the Tulalip Children’s Advocacy Center at (360) 716-5437 or email childadvocates@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov

Federal judges view Tulalip as restorative justice leaders

Tulalip Chief Judge Meredith Drent and U.S. District Judge Diane Humetawa.


By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

In a historic visit, federal judges from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Committee on Tribal and Native Relations recently visited Tulalip Tribal Court. The purpose of their visit was to inquire about and observe firsthand how holistic justice is practiced within a tribal legal system. This rare and significant event highlighted the growing recognition of tribal justice systems and their potential impact on broader judicial practices.

“The Ninth Circuit has by far the largest populations of Indigenous peoples and Indian nations as compared to other circuits in the nation,” said Judge Diane Humetewa, Chair of the Tribal and Native Relations Committee. Judge Humetewa (Hopi) made history in 2014 when she became the first Native American woman to ever serve as a federal judge. “Eighty percent of Indian Nations’ tribal population is within the 15 districts of the Ninth Circuit. As one of the objectives in the Committee’s charter states, we seek to better understand the common concerns related to judicial functions and open communication.”

Tribal Court executive director Tate London with Tlingit & Haida Supreme Court judge Cheryl Demmert Fairbanks.

The well-respected judicial visitors were welcomed by Chairwoman Teri Gobin, special projects manager Patti Gobin, Tribal Court executive director Tate London, and Tulalip’s current presiding judges, the honorable Meredith Drent, Christine Frausto, Peter Boome, Mark Pouley and Thomas Miller..

Spanning the morning of March 28, the visit took place at Tulalip Tribal Court, a courthouse within the jurisdiction of the Tribe’s 22,000-acre reservation that is governed by its own laws and justice system. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals plays a crucial role in legal matters affecting tribal communities. By engaging directly with Indigenous legal practitioners, the Ninth Circuit judges sought to better understand the nuances of tribal justice systems and how they differ from the conventional colonial model.

Honorable Chief Judge Drent conversing with 9th Circuit Committee member Lloyd Miller.

Unlike the traditional U.S. court system, which often prioritizes punishment and incarceration, many tribal courts emphasize restorative justice – an approach that seeks to heal relationships, rehabilitate offenders, and restore balance within the community. The visiting judges learned of Tulalip Court’s procedures that incorporate mediation, community involvement, and cultural traditions, such as talking circles and elder guidance.

“Restorative justice is about addressing harm, not just punishing crime,” explained Chief Judge Meredith Drent of the tribal court. “Tulalip Court’s services to the community include Healing to Wellness, Mental Wellness, and Family Wellness Court, Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid (TOCLA), Probation, and Tribal Court Elders Panel. These services are dependent upon judges, case managers, and service providers who are well-versed in cultural sensitivity and are driven to collaborate and partner with other necessary programs in order to heal the individual and mitigate future harm.”

Tulalip elder Patti Gobin welcomes the federal judges and magistrates by offering up a song created by ancestor Martha Lamont.

For the Ninth Circuit committee members, the experience provided valuable insight into a justice system that is both effective and culturally grounded. In many Tulalip Court cases, holistic practices have led to lower recidivism rates and stronger community ties, outcomes that have drawn increasing interest from legal scholars and policymakers.

With increasing discussions on criminal justice reform, restorative justice models, such as those seen in tribal courts, are attracting national attention. Some advocates argue that restorative justice principles could be integrated into the U.S. legal system to address issues like mass incarceration, youth rehabilitation, and community healing.

As the Ninth Circuit’s visit concluded, both tribal and federal judges expressed optimism about future collaboration and dialogue. “We’re hopeful for the opportunity to develop a collaboration with the Federal District Court for Western Washington,” said Tulalip Chief Judge Drent. “A collaboration where we can share resources and knowledge, but also develop methods so that when people interact with the federal system, they have ways to come home and put their best foot forward if there is an opportunity to do so.” 

The honorable Judge Humetawa added, “Meeting with the Tulalip Chief Judge, Tribal Judges and court staff provided a rare opportunity for federal judges in the Western District Court of Washington and members of the Ninth Circuits Committee on Tribal and Native Relations. Identifying areas of mutual concern in adjudicating cases that arise from tribal communities, such as Tulalip, can only happen when we meet in this way.”

Athletes honored after historical winter sports campaign

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

This past winter sports season, spanning from December to March, dozens of Tulalip youth showcased their athletic prowess on the highest stages of amateur competition. Marysville Pilchuck wrestling and Tulalip Heritage basketball both garnered state-wide recognition enroute to making school history, while other Tulalip high schoolers and middle schoolers showed out in their respective sports and postseason tournaments.

  To honor all those athletes who contributed to making the winter campaign unforgettable, the Youth Enrichment division hosted a stirring event at the Youth Center on March 28.

“We had a bunch of local athletes make it to the State level in their sport and thought we would come together to make that good medicine by hosting an honoring and coastal jam,” explained outreach advocate Odessa Flores. “It’s important we, as a community, take the time to hold space for these athletes and their accomplishments.”

Churning out accomplished athletes is something the Reservation has no difficulty doing. It seems like every family has that legendary uncle or auntie who embellishes only slightly when recounting their on-court or on-field domination. You know the ones. They aren’t bashful and will take as much credit as they can for teaching the current crop of players everything they know.

How much impact those old heads have actually had on the amazing athletes of 2025 is somewhere between incalculable and immeasurable. Past generations crawled and walked so the current generation could run. No longer forced to play just on the Reservation, proud Tulalip culture bearers now are fixtures on school teams all around Snohomish County.

Whether attending home school, public school or private school, our Tulalip athletes are excelling in the classroom and keeping themselves eligible to play sports in the fall, winter and spring seasons. More opportunity equals increased exposure and more playing time for youth who dream of playing on the college level.

During the Youth Enrichment event, each attending athlete was wrapped in a blanket before taking to center court. Then the mic came out. One by one, the athletes stated their name, age, and sports played. As they bashfully introduced themselves in front of the large audience, the sentiment was not lost that among them could be the next RaeQuan Battle (men’s college hooper turned pro), Mikail Montez (women’s college hooper), Zues Echevarria (college footballer) or Milo Jones (college wrestler).

Often times, what separates the dreamers from the believers is simple support. Thankfully, the Youth Enrichment division is full of devoted staff members who are committed to supporting Tulalip’s youth and helping turn dreams into reality.

“It makes my heart so full to witness the results of all the hard work our kids put in to better themselves and better their families,” said Odessa. “We created a gratitude tree just for this event so each athlete could add their own leaf that states what they are grateful for. It really represents the deep-rooted impact each of us has on the larger community.” 

Charles Edward Comenote Sr.

1957-2025

Our beloved dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle and friend, Charles Comenote Sr., was born in Everett, WA to George and Pauline Comenote. He was a lifelong resident of Tulalip. He was a simple, humble man who believed in the lord, loved his children and his family, and would give you the shirt off his back. He was always helping his people when he could, he tried walking this life with no enemies, if he was wrong, he would try and make it right. He worked for The Tulalip Tribes logging crew, he was a lifelong fisherman, crabber and diver. He leaves behind a loving family, friends, fishing buddies, and community who will miss him dearly. He is welcomed by many ancestors who traveled before him.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 10 AM with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.